How to Write a Resignation Letter

You might be wondering what an article about writing a resignation letter is doing on a blog about accounting software. Well, the connection’s pretty clear if you think about it for a second.

Let’s say you have a full-time job, but you also do work on the side. Well, at some point, that kind of side hustle might turn into your full-time gig. In order to pursue your dream of being a business owner full-time (and needing all the services that ZipBooks provides ready out of the box), you’re going to have to let your employer know that you’re leaving.

Why is it important to write a decent resignation letter?

Keep a fallback option

The truth is, sometimes businesses fail. If your business fails, you’re going to want to have a fallback, which might mean going back to your old employer. And even if you don’t go back to them, maintaining a good relationship is important so they can refer you to someone else. They may even be able to provide mentorship or leads for a new business.

It’s classy

Another reason you want to provide a resignation letter is because it’s the tactful thing to do. You don’t want to just drift off without an explanation.

You wouldn’t break up with someone over text, would you? Writing out a formal resignation letter is kind of like the classy way to break up with your employer. It’s a good way to provide closure for everyone.

They protect former employers

From the employer’s standpoint, resignation letters are actually super useful, because they now have proof that the employee resigned. This way, the employer is off the hook for any kind of unemployment claim. This is very important because every time there’s an unemployment claim made, the employer’s unemployment insurance premiums go up.

Resignation letters examples for you

A resignation letter should be short and to the point: give the information needed without lingering too long. Here are a few examples of different things you might focus on in your letter. We’ve also provided a few templates on our site to give you an idea of what this letter should look like.

Two weeks’ notice resignation letter example

Here’s an example of a two weeks’ notice resignation letter. It’s considerate to give your employer written notice a couple of weeks before you intend to go. This helps them to plan ahead and provides time to replace you before you actually leave.

Personal reasons resignation letter example

Sometimes people quit for personal reasons, like health-related issues or family problems. In that case, it’s important to keep things professional and non-specific. Remember, your soon-to-be former employer doesn’t have the right to know all your personal details, and, to be honest, they probably don’t want to know. Here’s an example personal reasons resignation letter you can use as a starting point.

Gratitude resignation letter example

If you have a good relationship with your employer, now is the time to let that show. No good employer is going to begrudge you the chance to chase your dream. I think showing a little bit of emotion and gratitude is appropriate especially if the employment position you were in was especially formative for your skill set. Here’s a good starting point for a gratitude resignation letter.

Formal resignation letter example

A good rule of thumb on formality is: the bigger the company, the more formal the resignation letter should be. Also, if you don’t know your boss well, or haven’t worked at your job very long, then it’s better to keep it formal as opposed to overly casual. Here’s a formal resignation letter to get your started.

About Brad

Brad Hanks is in charge of Growth at ZipBooks.

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